Special Culture Series
Kojiki Story Series
Learn Japanese through ancient myths retold in simple Japanese.
古事記の神話を、やさしい日本語で楽しむための特別シリーズです。
This is an occasional series. I create each episode slowly and carefully, when my schedule allows.
About Kojiki
What is Kojiki?
The Kojiki (古事記, “Records of Ancient Matters”) is Japan’s oldest chronicle, written in the early 8th century.
It tells stories of how Japan and its gods were born — from the creation of heaven and earth, to the birth of deities and legendary emperors.
These myths have deeply influenced Japanese culture, language, and traditions that continue to this day.
For Learners
Why learn Kojiki in simple Japanese?
In this series, I retell Kojiki stories in simple, natural Japanese so that learners can enjoy both language learning and Japanese mythology.
The level is designed mainly for upper-beginner to lower-intermediate learners, around JLPT N4–N3 / CEFR A2–B1.
Some names and details are simplified, adapted, or shortened to make the stories easier to understand.
Learning Goals
What you can learn from this series
This series is not only for watching. You can use it for listening, reading, vocabulary review, grammar review, and cultural understanding.
Japanese Culture
Understand important myths, gods, and cultural ideas that appear in Japanese tradition.
Reading Practice
Read simplified Japanese stories with a clear structure and repeated expressions.
Listening Practice
Listen to slow, clear Japanese and review with scripts and study PDFs.
It is not a full academic translation of the Kojiki.
Study Materials
Scripts and study PDFs
Study PDFs include scripts, furigana support, vocabulary, grammar notes, and cultural explanations.
How to study
1. Watch the video once and enjoy the story.
2. Read the script and check vocabulary.
3. Watch again while reading or shadowing.
4. Review with the PDF notes when available.
Episode Index
Start the Kojiki journey
Episodes 1–3 are available on YouTube. From Episode 4 onward, please check the separate page and Ko-fi materials.
1
What is Kojiki?
Introduction to the series and how to study with the videos and PDFs.
2
The Birth of the Gods
Discover how the world began and how the first gods were born in Japan’s creation myth.
3
Izanagi and Izanami — The Birth of the Islands and Gods
Meet Izanagi and Izanami, the divine couple who created Japan’s islands and gave birth to many gods.
Continue the journey
The Kojiki story continues beyond Episode 3. Episode 4 and later materials are introduced on a separate page.
Behind the Series
Production notes
I create this series using a combination of teaching experience, visual materials, editing tools, and reference books.
Tools
Canva for slides and visuals. Adobe Premiere Pro for video editing.
Illustrations
Adobe Stock, MotionElements, Irasutoya, and other visual materials are used where appropriate.
Sound
BGM and sound materials are selected to match the calm storytelling atmosphere.
References
Reference materials
The following works were used as reference materials for this simplified retelling of the Kojiki stories.
New Edition Kojiki with Modern Japanese Translation / Published by KADOKAWA Corporation
Let’s Read Japan: Understanding the Kojiki through Manga / Published by Nishinippon Publishing Co., Ltd.
The Kojiki Explained through Manga / Published by Seitosha Co., Ltd.
Published by Mynavi Publishing Co., Ltd.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
1. Where can I get the scripts and study PDFs?
Study PDFs are available on Ko-fi. They may include scripts, furigana support, vocabulary, grammar, and culture notes depending on the episode.
2. What level is this series for?
The stories are written in simple Japanese, mainly for upper-beginner to lower-intermediate learners, around JLPT N4–N3 / CEFR A2–B1.
3. How should I study with the videos?
First, watch the video and enjoy the story. Then read the script, check vocabulary, watch again, and review with the PDF if available.
4. The names of Japanese gods are hard to remember. Any tips?
That is normal. Even native speakers often find the names long and similar. Focus first on each god’s role and relationship rather than memorizing every kanji.
5. Will there be more stories?
I plan to continue creating storytelling videos slowly and carefully, including Japanese myths, legends, folktales, and classic themes when possible.
Updates
Series updates
For now, updates will be posted on this website. I may also share future updates on Instagram once the series grows.
Enjoy the Journey
Learn Japanese, one ancient story at a time.
I hope this series helps you enjoy Japanese language, mythology, and culture in a gentle and meaningful way.